Greer residents to decide about Sunday alcohol sales in stores

Published: Wednesday, August 13, 2014 at 6:08 p.m.

Last Modified: Wednesday, August 13, 2014 at 6:08 p.m.

In November, Greer residents will decide whether alcohol can be sold in grocery and convenience stores on Sundays.

Voters approved Sunday alcohol sales in city restaurants four years ago, but the referendum didn't include grocery and convenience stores.

During Tuesday night's meeting, City Council approved a resolution to place the referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot. Council approved the resolution 5 to 1. Greer Mayor Rick Danner was absent, and Councilman Wayne Griffin cast the only dissenting vote.

If the referendum is approved, beer and wine could be purchased at grocery and convenience stores seven days a week. Store owners would have to obtain permits from the South Carolina Department of Revenue.

Mark Owens, president and CEO of the Greer Chamber of Commerce, said if the referendum passes, it could have an impact on businesses in Greer. However, he said it was most important for voters to weigh in.

“The referendum is a great way for voters to have their voices heard,” he said.

Greer city councilman Wryley Bettis said the change could generate more business.

"This could stop Greer citizens from going to Greenville city on Sunday and also attract sales from outside the city of Greer. It may also lead to other business annexing into the city to take advantage of the opportunity," Bettis said.

<p>In November, Greer residents will decide whether alcohol can be sold in grocery and convenience stores on Sundays.</p><p>Voters approved Sunday alcohol sales in city restaurants four years ago, but the referendum didn't include grocery and convenience stores.</p><p>During Tuesday night's meeting, City Council approved a resolution to place the referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot. Council approved the resolution 5 to 1. Greer Mayor Rick Danner was absent, and Councilman Wayne Griffin cast the only dissenting vote.</p><p>If the referendum is approved, beer and wine could be purchased at grocery and convenience stores seven days a week. Store owners would have to obtain permits from the South Carolina Department of Revenue.</p><p>Mark Owens, president and CEO of the Greer Chamber of Commerce, said if the referendum passes, it could have an impact on businesses in Greer. However, he said it was most important for voters to weigh in.</p><p>“The referendum is a great way for voters to have their voices heard,” he said.</p><p>Greer city councilman Wryley Bettis said the change could generate more business.</p><p>"This could stop Greer citizens from going to Greenville city on Sunday and also attract sales from outside the city of Greer. It may also lead to other business annexing into the city to take advantage of the opportunity," Bettis said.</p><p><hr /></p><p><b>More from Zach Fox: </b> <a href= https://twitter.com/ZachFoxSHJ > Twitter </a> | <a href= http://www.goupstate.com/personalia/20140113 >Articles</a></p>